I
didn't follow in my dad's footsteps initially, but I came back to wood. As a
santero, I have never been more fulfilled. I love my work. I'm extremely supportive
of anyone who expresses an interest in learning to carve, especially young children,
who, because of the experience, may take up the art form as adults. I have experienced
many wonderful things through my work, and I'd like others to be able to do
the same. There's nothing like getting your hands on nature through working
with wood, homemade gesso, and natural pigments extracted from minerals and
plants. Just picking up a piece of wood is a start. The possibilities are endless,
and the rewards are many.